Uses/Indications:

Clopidogrel, a platelet aggregation inhibitor, may be useful for the prevention of thromboembolic disease in cats and dogs. 

• Clopidogrel appears to reduce recurrent cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism and mortality in cats when administered after arterial thromboembolism.
• Although aspirin and clopidogrel have been used together, evidence supporting the combination of these drugs is scarce. 
• Clopidogrel may also improve pelvic limb circulation in cats after a cardiogenic embolic event via a vasomodulating effect secondary to inhibition of serotonin release from platelets.
• Clopidogrel may interfere with the metabolism of NSAIDs ,phenytoin, toresemide, and warfarin.
• There may be an increased risk of bleeding when clopidogrel is used NSAIDs, warfarin, and aspirin.

In dogs, clopidogrel appears to prevent arterial thromboembolism. This drug may also be effective in dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), although there is not much evidence supporting this use.

Clopidogrel inhibits platelet function in healthy adult horses but failed to attenuate ex vivo equine herpesvirus (EHV)-1 induced platelet activation.

Key Information:

• Clopidogrel may be given with or withoutfood.
• If your animal vomits or acts sick after receiving the drug on an empty stomach, try giving the next dose with food or a small treat.
• If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.
• Bleeding is notlikely but can occur.
• If your animal shows any signs of bleeding, bruising, or black, tarry stools, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Prescriber Highlights:

• Oral, once-daily platelet aggregation inhibitor that may be useful in the treatment of dogs and cats with hypercoagulable states and in the prevention of thromboembolic disease.
• Inhibits platelet function for the lifespan of the platelet; normal hemostasis is typically restored 5 to 7 days after discontinuation of the medication.
• Appears to be well tolerated, but can potentially cause vomiting or bleeding.